VOL. 174, NO. 21~ PRESCOTT, ONTARIO ~ May 26, 2004

Federal election set for June 28

Race in Leeds-Grenville features rematch of Joe Jordan and Gord Brown

SOUTH GRENVILLE ­ The official campaign has finally begun.

After months of speculation and anticipation, Prime Minister Paul Martin asked the governor general to dissolve parliament Sunday, paving the way for a federal election to be held Monday, June 28.

The Liberals are seeking to form a fourth straight government; the first three were majorities under the leadership of Jean Chrétien.

Closer to home, Leeds-Grenville Liberal MP Joe Jordan is seeking a third term in the House of Commons. In the Nov. 2000 election, Jordan defeated Alliance candidate Gord Brown by 55 votes. This time around, Brown is the candidate for the new Conservative Party of Canada, which is the amalgamation of the federal Alliance and Progressive Conservative parties.

Steve Armstrong is the New Democratic Party candidate in Leeds-Grenville. Jerry Heath will represent the Green Party.

As of press time, there had been no formal indication as to when or where there would be a candidate meeting in the Prescott area.

See next week's Journal for more information on Campaign 2004.

THIS WEEK

Special section features renovated town hall

The Town of Prescott will be opening the doors to the newly-renovated Dibble Street municipal building this Saturday as part of the Doors Open program. The event will also provide a showcase for community groups and organizations.

See the special section in this week's Journal for more on the town hall project.

Community dinner served this evening

PRESCOTT ­ This month's Master's Hands community supper will take place today (Wednesday, May 26) at Seaway Christian Church on Churchill Road.

The free dinner for the needy will be served from 5 to 6:15 pm. For more information, call 925-5840.

Optimists to recognize volunteers tonight

SPENCERVILLE ­ The Optimist Club of Spencerville will host its annual volunteer appreciation event tonight (Wednesday, May 26) at the Drummond Building.

Dinner starts at 7 pm. The scheduled guest speaker is former Prescott mayor Sandra Lawn.

The club will also present its adult and student volunteer of the year awards tonight.

The clock is ticking

PRESCOTT ­ Time is once again moving in downtown Prescott.

After several months of being out of commission, the clocks at the clock tower were repaired early last week. However, the bell remains out of action.

Folk night at St. Paul's

PRESCOTT ­ A folk choir concert will take place Sunday, May 30 at 7 pm at St. Paul's United Church.

The event will include special performances by Ryan and Nathaniel Hayes. Refreshments will follow. St. Paul's is located at the corner of George and Dibble streets.

Unearth history at fort

PRESCOTT ­ Visitors will really dig Fort Wellington this Saturday.

In addition to free admission from 10 am to 5 pm as part of Doors Open, the national historic site will offer a behind-the-scenes archaeology tour guided by a Parks Canada military archaeologist at 11 am. Information and artifacts from past digs will be featured.

There will also be an evening tour by candlelight. Prepare to hear legends from the fort's past in an intriguing stroll through the historic grounds and buildings. There is an admission fee for the evening tour.

For more information, call 925-2896.

Conservative leader makes stop in riding

Stephen Harper has high hopes for Eastern Ontario

By Tim Ruhnke, Journal Editor

BROCKVILLE ­ The federal Conservatives are confident they can win the riding of Leeds-Grenville area from the Liberals.

Hours after the June 28 election was called Sunday, Conservative leader Stephen Harper and his family attended a rally at the Brockville Legion. Hundreds of people ­ including the national media following his campaign ­ crammed into the hall to hear Harper speak to supporters.

The Conservatives have high hopes for Leeds-Grenville, which was almost won by Alliance candidate Gord Brown in the 2000 election.

The Alliance and Progressive Conservatives merged late last year to form the new Conservative Party of Canada.

Harper noted it is great to have one strong and unified conservative party that he said offers a clear and viable alternative to the governing Liberals.

Among the many pledges the Conservative leader stated Sunday were cutting gas taxes for ordinary Canadians, scrapping the gun registry, shoring up support for the military and putting an end to wasteful spending.

"Waste, mismanagement and corruption are not Canadian values," the Conservative leader said.

An upbeat Harper also noted Jordan had been an Elvis impersonator. "He'll have four years to practise 'Heartbreak Hotel,'" remarked Harper, who then sang a brief and slightly altered version of that song to reflect the prospect that Jordan will lose votes at election time.

The Conservative leader also said Brown will make a "terrific" member of parliament.

For his part, Brown said Harper's visit was significant for local Conservative supporters. "It meant a lot to us," he said. "We're not taking anything for granted."

Across the street from the Legion, several protestors carrying signs stood quietly as Conservative supporters gathered and awaited Harper's arrival.

Timing questioned

Two days before the election was called, Jordan announced the federal government is giving $10 million in economic development funding to community futures development corporations (CFDCs) in Eastern Ontario this year. Brown told The Journal Sunday he welcomes the money and supports the work done by CFDCs. However, the Conservative candidate took issue with the timing of the announcement.

Brown said he wonders where the money has been, adding Jordan "...should be ashamed" about delivering the good news right before the election call.

"We need more than a leap-year politician," said Brown, who added the Conservatives will make economic development a priority.

Ensuring federal money will be available to help the Town of Prescott build a new sewage treatment plant will also be a priority if the Conservatives are elected, according to Brown.

Bad weather dampens spirits at this year's Harbour Days

By Tim Ruhnke, Journal Editor

PRESCOTT ­ When it rains, it pours.

Bad weather prompted organizers to cancel or postpone all events on the third and final day of this year's Harbour Days in Prescott.

Steady rain and a less-than-promising forecast Monday morning resulted in several kids day events to be put on hold.

The cancellation affected the children's games at the waterfront, as well as the teddy bear clinic and picnic and the petting zoo. Traditionally, Monday is the biggest day in the three-day Victoria Day Weekend festival.

Lead organizer Mike Boyles said the forecast called for rain, high winds and the possibility of lightning. With that in mind, Boyles did not think it was a good idea to have the youngsters and others out in that kind of weather.

"We hate to disappoint people, but there's not much we could do about that," he said. "When you have an outdoor event, you depend on the weather."

The rain let up by mid-morning, and conditions were mostly dry for a few hours. Some people who made their way to the waterfront indicated they were disappointed everything had been cancelled. Some wondered if some of the events could have been held in the arena.

Boyles said that suggestion is "a good thought" that will be considered. He also did not rule out the possibility some of the children's events could be held later this summer.

Organizers of the Kiwanis Soap Box Derby began to set up the George Street course Monday morning before deciding to postpone the event. Club member Estelle Street said the derby would likely be held on the Father's Day weekend in June or on some evening in July.

The Grenville Fish and Game Club's Little Dreamer was at the harbour early Monday morning, but the free rides were also cancelled.

The weather was not so bad Saturday and Sunday, although cloudy and cool conditions appeared to affect attendance at some events. The concert by the Parr Christie Singers Sunday afternoon at the Kinsmen Outdoor Theatre attracted a crowd of between 50 and 60 people. Similar numbers turned out for the church service held earlier that day at the same location.

The Legion did well with its Sunday breakfast and barbecue, according to Boyles.

In terms of Saturday's sidewalk sale that coincided with Harbour Days, Boyles said some merchants reported a busy start to the day. Others indicated a slow start, with things picking up a bit later in the day.

Grenville County OPP constable being remembered as a leader

Tyler Boutilier, 32, dies of injuries sustained in crash at Seeley's Bay

PRESCOTT ­ The local Ontario Provincial Police detachment is mourning the loss of one of its own.

Constable Tyler Boutilier died of injuries he sustained in a two-vehicle crash Sunday afternoon on Highway 15 near Seeley's Bay. Boutilier, 32, a member of the Grenville County detachment since joining the OPP in Sept. 2000, was responding to a call at about 3 pm when his southbound cruiser was struck by a northbound vehicle that had crossed the centre line. He was pronounced dead Sunday evening.

The female driver of the other vehicle sustained non-life-threatening injuries. An adult passenger and two children in the back seat were not injured.

Further details about the crash ­ including whether charges are expected ­ were unavailable at press time.

Boutilier, who lived in Brockville, was responding to a call as a member of the OPP Emergency Response Team that deals with serious incidents and emergency situations throughout the region.

Constable Holly Howard, community services officer with the Grenville detachment, said Boutilier (or "Boots," as he was known) was a wonderful person who was "dedicated beyond the call of duty" and "never had an off-shift."

Personnel at the detachment were to take part in a debriefing Tuesday afternoon at which staff could be together to mourn the loss of one of their own. "We're dealing with the loss of one of our family," said Howard, who added Boutilier's fellow officers are really struggling with his death.

Visitation is set for this afternoon and evening at the United Church in Havelock, which is east of Peterborough. The funeral service will take place tomorrow (Thursday) at 10 am at the church.

Tyler Boutilier is survived by his wife, Lori Bates. The couple had no children. The constable also has a sister who is an OPP officer.

Town trying to avoid property tax increase

By Tim Ruhnke, Journal Editor

PRESCOTT ­ Reports of a property tax hike in Prescott this year might have been premature.

Members of town council agreed last week to set a target of not having to increase property taxes. This would mean ratepayers whose assessment went up this year would not have to pay more in taxes to the town than in 2003.

Heading into a budget meeting last Tuesday night, it appeared ratepayers might be facing a tax increase of five per cent or more. By the end of that meeting, though, council had set its goal at zero.

Councillor Jo-Anne Beckstead, chair of the finance and corporate services committee, told The Journal late last week council had yet to identify where additional changes to the proposed budget would be made. However, Beckstead added there was consensus that the goal would be to avoid a tax increase.

The budget was reviewed at a committee meeting last night, and a finalized budget might be ready for the June 7 council meeting.

Although ratepayers might catch a break on their tax bills, the same cannot be said for utility bills. Council will proceed with plans to increase most water and sewer rates by 50 per cent effective July 1. This would apply to both flat and consumption rates.

There is also a proposal to increase the average monthly fee for outdoor water taps (or garden taps) to $6 effective July 1.

The tap rate would go up to $15 in July 2005 and $30 the following year. Town officials are hoping property owners will make the switch to metered water for outdoor use and, as a result, avoid the additional monthly tap fee.

Council set its budget goal after hearing a report last Tuesday from auditor Howard Allan. He noted Prescott's tax rate "is at the high end of the range," adding the town has experienced "very modest" assessment growth in recent years.

Allan also noted long-term debt is up; however, tax arrears are down considerably compared to a few years ago.

The municipality recorded a deficit of $42,000 in 2003 based on total revenue of about $6.9 million. "It's certainly not the end of the world," Allan remarked.

"My real concern about the town is our long-term prospects," he added.

Allan encouraged council to lobby the provincial government for more infrastructure funding given the town's limited tax base.

Part of Allan's presentation to council last week was made behind closed doors. Personnel issues were cited as the reason for the move.

BB gun incident leads to assault with weapon charge being laid

Prescott woman sustains minor injuries Saturday

PRESCOTT ­ A 19-year-old Prescott man faces a charge of assault with a weapon following an incident involving a BB gun Saturday.

A Prescott resident parked her vehicle on the south side of King Street near Edward Street, according to the Prescott Police Service. While getting out of the vehicle, the woman felt an unknown object go by her and she heard a loud "ping" come for the vehicle.

When she returned and opened her door, she was hit by an object and felt a sharp pain in her lower back.

The incident occurred while there was a significant amount of vehicular and pedestrian traffic during Harbour Days, police noted in a release.

Officers responded and concluded she had been shot with a BB gun. Officers attended a nearby apartment on the south side of King and made an arrest. Trevor Foreman of Prescott was charged, and a BB gun was seized. The woman sustained minor injuries and was treated by ambulance personnel.

Constable Moe Morrissette is investigating.

Also on Saturday, police received a complaint that a male youth was shooting at squirrels in Centennial Park. A 17-year-old was found to be in possession of a BB gun, which was seized by police. Charges are pending. Constable Terry Foster is continuing the investigation.

A municipal bylaw prohibits the discharge of guns or other firearms and any type of spring-loaded gun within town limit and including backyards (unless the property has been designated for such use and approved by the police chief.

The maximum fine for bylaw violations is $300.

Money reported missing at town ambulance base

PRESCOTT ­ Officers with the Prescott Police Service investigated 88 incidents and four motor vehicle collisions during the week of May 17.

On May 22, police received a report from a Dibble Street West resident who indicated his licence plate had been stolen from the back of his vehicle when it was parked in his driveway. Constable Moe Morrissette is investigating.

While on patrol May 21, Constable Morrissette observed four males who were acting in a suspicious manner on South Grenville District High School property. A 16-year-old and 18-year-old were found to be in possession of a small amount of narcotics. Charges are pending.

On May 21, a company on Churchill Road reported one of its employees had been threatened by another employee. Edward Houghton, 24, of Prescott was arrested and charged with threatening. He will appear in court at a later date. The investigating officer is Constable Richard Champagne.

A worker at the ambulance base reported $450 had gone missing, police were advised May 18. There were no signs of forced entry. Constable Champagne is investigating.

Lawn ornaments were reported stolen from a King Street West front lawn May 23. The investigating officer is Constable Morrissette.

On May 17, it was reported two workers at a group home on Railway Avenue had been assaulted by a 15-year-old female resident. There were no injuries. Charges are pending. Constable Rob Prophet is continuing the investigation.

Anyone with information on these or any other occurrences in town is asked to contact the Prescott Police Service at 925-4252 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.

OPP NEWS

Drivers must remain at scene

AUGUSTA ­ A collision in which the driver failed to remain at the scene is being investigated by Constable Bisson of Grenville County OPP.

The crash took place during the overnight hours of Saturday, May 15 and was reported two days later by the counties road department. A vehicle had left County Road 21, entered the south ditch and damaged eight guard posts near Hurley Road. Witnesses identified the vehicle as being blue; the investigation revealed it was pulled out by a tractor. Constable Bisson would like to speak to the driver. Anyone with information is asked to contact the detachment at 925-4221.

Drivers are reminded it is their duty to report collisions as soon as possible after they occur. This includes single-vehicle mishaps that are not being reported for insurance purposes. Damage to private property must be reported; it is an offence not to report damage or not remaining at the scene of a collision.

Domestic dispute results in injuries

EDWARDSBURGH ­ Police responded to a domestic occurrence just north of Cardinal May 19 at about 2:30 am.

A 28-year-old Brockville woman went to a residence to speak to a former spouse. An argument ensued, and the woman sustained serious injuries and was transported to hospital in Ottawa. A 28-year-old male suspect had fled the scene, but later attended the detachment in Prescott. He was arrested for aggravated assault and remained in custody pending a May 25 court appearance. To protect the names of the victim and minors involved, the OPP are not releasing names.

Vehicle was used in domestic assault

SPENCERVILLE ­ On May 18 at about 10:30 pm, OPP officers responded to a domestic dispute on Spencer Street in Spencerville that involved a 38-year-old woman and 30-year-old man from North Grenville. The man sustained minor injuries in the incident but was not hospitalized, according to police.

The woman was arrested a short time later at a residence. She faces charges of dangerous driving, assault with a weapon (a vehicle) and uttering threats. Highway Traffic Act offences are also being investigated. She was released on conditions and is scheduled to appear in Brockville court May 28. Police did not release the names of the man and woman.

Health unit takes part in campaign to tell people alcohol and pregnancy do not mix

SOUTH GRENVILLE - It may cause vision and hearing problems, damage to heart, kidney, liver and other organs, slow growth and may cease the proper forming of a baby's limbs.

The cause is alcohol use during pregnancy, and the message Best Start (Ontario's Maternal, Newborn and Early Child Development and Resource Centre) wants to get across to expectant mothers is "Alcohol and Pregnancy don't mix."

One in 100 births are affected by prenatal exposure to alcohol. In Leeds, Grenville and Lanark, the annual birth rate is approximately 1,500 births per year. There could be as many as 15 babies born locally that have been exposed to alcohol before birth.

As well as causing physical problems and deformities, fetal alcohol spectrum disorder can cause brain damage that may result in a child having learning disabilities, hyperactivity, trouble remembering or paying attention, difficulty with problem solving and controlling anger and poor judgement.

The Leeds, Grenville and Lanark District Health Unit supports the province-wide campaign to increase awareness of the dangers of drinking alcohol while pregnant. The campaign will run during May and June and will include advertising on transit systems across Ontario. The health unit, local health care providers and LCBO are supporting the campaign by distributing information about alcohol and pregnancy.

For more information, call 345-5685 or visit www.alcoholfreepregnancy.ca.

Brenda Ramsay going from South Grenville to North Dundas

Principal has been at Prescott high school since Sept. 2000

By David Dickenson, Journal Staff Writer

PRESCOTT - South Grenville District High School will be getting a new principal this fall.

Brenda Ramsay will be the new principal of North Dundas District High School, it was announced Thursday.

Coming in to replace Ramsay as the new principal will be Ted Whiteland who is the current president of the Ontario Principals Council and a former principal at Commonwealth Public School in Brockville.

"I know Ted (Whiteland) and he's going to be a great addition here," Ramsay told The Journal. "He'll be bringing a breadth of experience here and his role as the vice president of the Canadian Principals Association will be a good thing and help put the school on the map."

For Ramsay, the decision was a tough one to make having been at South Grenville for nearly five years.

"Once I'm there (at North Dundas), I'm sure it will be great," said Ramsay, "but I love this school (South Grenville) and I'm really going to miss it. It was a really hard decision to move, I've been walking down the halls with knots in my stomach knowing that I'm leaving. It's not easy."

Ramsay was quick to credit the staff and students for making her stay at South Grenville a special one.

"I've felt real support from the community while I've been here," explained Ramsay.

"Four-and-a-half years is a long time for a principal's job, and I haven't been anywhere longer than that. The new school will mean a bit of a shorter drive for me, but I'll miss the school and all the support. It's been great working with everyone here like Jo-Ellen (Bauder), we're an administrative team. We have a wonderful staff and I hope that continues. The kids have also been great, and I'm going to miss them too. All I will see for the next month is what I'll be leaving behind."

For the time being, Ramsay is trying to balance her schedule between South Grenville and North Dundas.

"I've been trying to finish off things that I need to have done," said Ramsay.

"With the move, I now have a new deadline. I'm trying to balance things and do what I have to here as well as go to my new school and meet everyone and work with the new principal here to try and make a smooth transition."

Ramsay indicated it's been tough for her knowing she's not going to be around the school next year and is going to miss the special connection she's felt with the students.

"It's tough, since I feel like I've gone through school with a lot of our older kids," said Ramsay. "When I first came, a lot of these kids were Grade 9s and we went through everything together. I've enjoyed this wholly. The connection with the kids is what I love most about being a principal."

The Upper Canada District School Board released a list of principal and vice-principal appointments and transfers Thursday. Olga Kay-Grigoriev, vice-principal of Maynard and Maitland public schools, was named principal of Commonwealth Public School in Brockville. Terry Gardiner will succeed her as vice-principal of the two elementary schools.

Feds give $10 million for economic development

By Tim Ruhnke, Journal Editor

BROCKVILLE ­ The federal government is injecting $10 million into Eastern Ontario economic development, Leeds-Grenville MP Joe Jordan announced Friday.

Each community futures development corporation (CFDC) in Eastern Ontario will receive about $650,000. This includes Prescott-based Grenville Community Futures Development Corporation (GCFDC).

Although the announcement came two days before the federal election call, Jordan said this initiative has been a long time coming. The Liberal MP, who was first elected in 1997, indicated the eastern part of Ontario is one of the few areas of Canada not covered by its own economic development agency.

Funding for the Eastern Ontario initiative was provided for in the federal budget announced in March. Prime Minister Paul Martin also floated the concept of a regional economic development agency at a roundtable discussion held in Brockville in February.

CFDCs provide support to businesses in the form of loans, an equity fund and a small amount of money for economic development. The funding announced Friday will not be used for loans. CFDC boards will determine which projects or programs to fund.

"It (the funding) will flow regardless of what happens" in the June 28 election, Jordan said.

As for additional funding in the region after this year, Jordan noted he hopes a plan for a permanent economic development agency in Eastern Ontario is in place by November.

Jordan acknowledged the Eastern Ontario economy is"...in a bit of decline at times." He is pleased the government is committed to creating an agency that can respond to the direct needs of the riding.

"Certainly, it's a great day" and we're starting the turnaround, Jordan stated. "It's a good story to tell."

One local project receiving serious consideration for some of the new funding is the South Grenville Infrastructure Program, a joint initiative being promoted by the local economic development committee and the three local municipalities. The federla government has been asked to pay the costs of that study to deal with, among other things, the water needs of the Prescott area and the possibility of an industrial corridor being created along the south side of Highway 401 between Maitland and Johnstown, with connections to Cardinal.

GCFDC Chair Ray Young welcomed Friday's announcement. "It will be a big help to the entire area," said Young, who added the board would see the money gets spread around in Grenville County.

Young said he would like to see part of the funding used for downtown revitalization in several communities, including Prescott, Cardinal, Spencerville and Kemptville.

Also on hand were municipal leaders, CFDC staff and clients. Prescott Mayor Robert Lawn said he knows how hard Jordan has worked on trying to get the government to meet the needs of the region. In praising CFDCs and welcoming the announcement, the mayor also noted the importance of local municipalities working together to address the subject of economic development.

"As a unit, we have a good chance. Individually, no chance at all," Lawn remarked.

Augusta Reeve John McCrea and Edwardsburgh/Cardinal Mayor Peggy Taylor were also on hand at the announcement.

The other two CFDCs that cover the Leeds-Grenville riding are the 1000 Islands CFDC (Brockville and South Leeds) and Valley Heartland CFDC (North Leeds, Merrickville-Wolford and Lanark). The announcement was made at the 1000 Islands office in downtown Brockville.

Expansion of the municipal airport near Brockville and a business incubator project based at St. Lawrence College in Brockville have been identified as being given tentative approval by CFDC and are potential recipients of some of the additional funding announced Friday.

Jordan, a former CFDC client, spoke highly of the work the agencies do in the community. One of their strengths is being able to relate to local needs and individual circumstances, something lending institutions such as banks might not be as well-equipped to handle.

Take a stroll through Doors Open sites this Saturday

SOUTH GRENVILLE ­ Doors Open returns to the Prescott and Brockville areas this Saturday.

This is the third annual edition of the cultural heritage program that enables the public to learn more about local points of interest.

Participating sites will be open from 10 am to 4 pm. Admission is free.

Volunteers, owners and staff will be on hand at the sites to give tours and provide background about the properties, some of which are not usually accessible to visitors on a regular basis.

Participating sites in South Grenville include:

* Battle of the Windmill National Historic Site, Windmill Road off County Road 2 east of Prescott

* Blue Church, corner of County Road 2, Blue Church Road, Augusta

* Blue Heron Bed and Breakfast, County Road 2, Riverview Heights, Augusta

* Bridgewaters Inn, County Road 2, Johnstown

* Colonel's Inn, 408 East St., Prescott

* Fort Wellington National Historic Site, King Street East, Prescott

* Forwarders' Museum, corner of Centre and Water streets, Prescott

* Grenville Christian College, County Road 2 just west of Maitland

* Homewood National Historic Site, County Road 2 west of DuPont, Augusta

* Oasis Gardens, 1803 County Road 2, Edwardsburgh/Cardinal

* Prescott Town Hall, 360 Dibble St. W., Prescott

* St. John's Anglican Church, corner of Centre and James streets, Prescott.

For more details on the local venues, call Tourism Prescott at 925-1861.

There are also many sites in the Brockville area taking part in Saturday's Doors Open event. For more information on the Brockville-Thousand Islands program, call 342-4357 or visit www.brockville.com.

Friends of Windmill receive federal grant

WINDMILL POINT ­ The federal government has given funding to a volunteer group that operates a local heritage site.

The Friends of the Windmill Point received $5,000 from Parks Canada's Co-operating Associations Program. Leeds-Grenville MP Joe Jordan made the announcement Thursday on behalf of Environment Minister David Anderson.

"This group has dedicated countless volunteer hours to keep the Battle of the Windmill tourist attraction in the Prescott area operating, and they are to be commended," Jordan stated in a news release.

The money will support the purchase of insurance and shop inventory as well as the reprinting of Guns Across the River, a book that tells the story of the 1838 battle that took place just east of Prescott.

The local Friends group is one of 55 associations taking part in the Parks Canada program. Those groups generate a combined $10 million in revenue and 60,000 volunteer hours in support of national parks and historic sites.

The Windmill site will be open this Saturday from 10 am to 4 pm ­ as will other participating locations in the Prescott and Brockville areas ­ as part of this year's Doors Open program.

This weekend also marks the beginning of Windmill's 2004 summer tourist season.

Prescott, Maitland among concert sites in Festival on the St. Lawrence

SOUTH GRENVILLE ­ Two local concerts in the Festival on the St. Lawrence's 2004 schedule will take place this weekend.

The first is set for this Saturday, May 29 at 7:30 pm at Grenville Christian College on County Road 2 just west of Maitland.

An all-star ensemble featuring seven musicians and an actress will celebrate the golden age of military and civilian wind bands commonly known as concert bands. "Le Kiosque à Musique" is a tribute to Canadian musicians who brought composed music to the public. There will be a historical narration and turn-of-the-century costumes.

Tickets are available by calling GCC at 345-5521.

The Prescott concert featuring the Queen's University Chamber Ensemble will take place Sunday, May 30 at 3 pm at St. Andrew's Presbyterian Church at the corner of Centre and Dibble streets. The programme includes works by Bach, Haydn and Stephen Sondheim.

Tickets will be available at the door or in advance by calling 925-0562.

The Festival on the St. Lawrence, which was founded last year, is an international showcase of music, art and heritage. From May 14 to June 30, performances are taking place in several communities between Kingston and Cornwall and in upstate New York.

The festival was established through seed funding by Human Resources and Skills development Canada in partnership with St. Lawrence College and the State University of New York at Potsdam. For more information, call 345-0660, ext. 1359 or visit www.fosl.ca.

Torch Run returns to South Grenville Monday

SOUTH GRENVILLE ­ The Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics will make its annual stop in the Prescott area Monday, May 31.

Officers with the Grenville County OPP detachment will begin the local leg of the run at South Edwardsburg Public School in Johnstown at about 2 pm. Participants will head west on County Road 2 to Prescott, where they will hook up with the Prescott Police Service at Fort Wellington at about 2:20 pm. The Torch Run will then make its way to Edward Street and then north to O'Reilly's Your Independent Grocer.

This year's event fundraiser is Toonies for Torches. In exchange for a toonie, the donor's name goes onto a torch to be displayed at the detachment. Torches will be delivered to the high school and can also be purchased at the detachment or at the grocery store at the end of the local leg of the run.

Proceeds from the Torch Run will be used to provide a local, year-round program of fitness, recreation and competition for intellectually-challenged athletes.

The Torch Run, which celebrates its 18th anniversary this year, is sponsored by the Ontario Association of Chiefs of Police and corporate partner Carquest Auto Parts.

Garden tour is blossoming

SPENCERVILLE - The Spencerville Branch of the Friends of the Edwardsburgh Library is holding its annual garden tour, plant sale and tea Saturday, June 12.

The garden tour can begin at any of these six gardens: Ethel and Claude Melbourne at 816 County Rd. 2, Angie and Gord Knights at 525 Pittston Rd., Linda and Stan Poaps at 917 Crowder Rd, Irene and Eddy Beaudoin at 98 County Rd. 21, Carol and Dennis Colautti at 8071/8075/8085 County Rd. 22, and Doug Hall and Gordon MacDonald at 6 South St. in Spencerville.

A map is included with ticket purchase and tickets are available at the library, or on the day of the event at the Lions Den, 4122 County Rd. 44, from 8 am to 3 pm. For more information, call 658-2709.

The Lions Den will be hosting the plant sale from 8 am to 3 pm, with tea served at 3 pm. There will be a large selection of perennials and bedding plants.

All proceeds will go to support the library.

QUOTE OF THE WEEK

"We're just happy to be back at work."

Casco union President Kevin Patrick, commenting on the end of the six-day strike

Editor's Notebook

MONEY IS NOT EVERYTHING: Everybody supports economic development ­ especially at election time.

By announcing plans to create a federal agency to dole out money to Eastern Ontario as well as handing out $10 million to the region this year, Liberal MP Joe Jordan succeeded in addressing a need that has been too long in the making. The fact the announcement was being made two days before the much-anticipated election call was being cited as either the culmination of years of lobbying or a blatant example of political opportunism.

The bottom line is the Leeds-Grenville area is in desperate need of support. Just about anything it can get is welcome, no matter which party happens to be in power or trying to woo the voters. Give credit to the Liberals for making the announcement, but also take note of everything else the government has or has not done for or to the Prescott area during the past decade or so.

We as a region need all the help we can get, and the contents of last week's announcement should not be dismissed out of hand. However, voters have every right to be suspicious of the timing of this good news story.

PROMISES, PROMISES: Premier Dalton McGuinty and the provincial Liberal government have been taking it on the chin in many circles for breaking campaign promises and introducing tax hikes and new tax measures to deal with the multi-billion-dollar deficit inherited from the Tories. On the surface, Ontarians have every right to be angry.

Then again, deep down, what did they expect? Does it really come as a surprise that someone who was trying to get elected said things that he might not be able or willing to back up once he is in power? To blame all of this on the Tories seems a bit disingenuous and a weak attempt by the Liberals to shift the blame. However, the voters played an important role in all this by setting aside their instincts and cynicism about politicians and giving Dalton McGuinty the benefit of the doubt.

In a news release issued last Wednesday, Leeds-Grenville MPP Bob Runciman states "I feel a real sadness for the hard-working men and women in my riding, many of whom voted Liberal, who were caught by the deceit of the Liberal government and will now pay the penalty." The Progressive Conservative MPP also notes he is saddened by the fact many of his Tory colleagues at Queen's Park were defeated in the Oct. 2003 election "...on the basis of false promises" made by the Liberals.

Runciman has a point, but that's politics! We've been fooled before, and we'll be fooled again.

Tim Ruhnke

Marriage has a different meaning to this generation

GUEST COLUMN by Cortney Willard

I do, or do I?

Marriage has come to mean something very different today, especially to those of us in our twenties and thirties.

With over half of all first marriages ending in divorce, it is no wonder that my generation has decided to take a second look at the rules. Many of my friends have already decided to live common-law instead of getting hitched, and while all of them have their own personal reasons, most when asked came down to the fact that they would rather not get married because they would rather not get divorced.

There are valid reasons so many more marriages end in divorce today than in the past, but the reason most evident to me is that we have changed as a society and the sanctity of marriage has not changed with us.

It is not as practical for us, or as necessary, to form the same union our parents and grandparents did. Women are working as much as men today and waiting until later in life to even think about marriage, so by the time a lot of us get around to it, we realize that it may not even fit into our lives.

That is not to say that we do not want a mate, someone to share our life with and maybe even have children with, we just may not want to get married.

All in all, I am not trying to bash marriage; I am just trying to better understand what happens between two happy and well-adjusted people after they get married. I have been witness to two relationship melt-downs almost immediately after they tied the knot. I wondered each time if it was one of those "don't fix what isn't broken" deals.

I do feel that a strong union between two people, especially if children are involved, is important and fundamental for most people to be happy, but what exactly we should call that union I am not sure. I still hold out hope our generation will figure out a way to resolve the marriage issue; as more and more people get divorced each day, it really does need to be addressed.

In the end, a lot of people argue that you should get married if you have children, but in my opinion, the damage caused to a child of divorce will far outweigh any damage caused to a child with parent's who are together, but have different last names.

Highway 416 coalition chairman won't be lulled by promises

FROM THE ARCHIVES

May 31, 1934

* Miss Hildred Louise Dubrule of Prescott, completing her course in commerce at McGill University, Montreal, is the winner of the lieutenant-governor's silver medal for accountancy, mathematics, business organization and commercial law.

Edward O'Neil Higgins, Prescott, qualified for the degree of bachelor of commerce.

May 25, 1944

* Lieutenant Dietitian Sister M. Catherine Freeman, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Gerald Freeman, Prescott, is now serving overseas with the 4th General Hospital. She was one of the youngest pupils to receive a degree of bachelor of household science, and then went on to join the Royal Canadian Army Medical Corps.

May 27, 1954

* A site somewhere between the first subway east of Prescott and the Johnstown junction of the Ottawa and Montreal highways now looms as the most probable Canadian terminus for the Ogdensburg-Prescott bridge. Indications towards this conclusion were evident following a visit to Prescott and Edwardsburgh Township sites by the Ogdensburg Bridge Authority, Ogdensburg council and engineering consultants.

May 27, 1964

* Principal R.A. Cousins will be re-instated in his position as head of the teaching staff of South Grenville District High School as a result of a meeting of boards of the district and the municipal council.

May 30, 1984

* Walter Hofmann is retiring this month as music instructor and band master at SGDHS for the past 26 years.

May 25, 1994

* The chairman of the Citizens' Coalition for Highway 416, Victor Allen of Spencerville, is looking with guarded optimism at a provincial announcement that the widening of the southern section of the highway could begin as early as the fall. The federal government has announced it would chip in about a third of the project's $180-million cost to create four lanes on the killer strip of highway. However, Allen says the province still may not carry through on its promise to begin work on the 60-kilometre stretch of Highway 16 from Century Road to the 401, and plans to monitor Queen's Park movements.

Telephone was a tough sell at first in Prescott back in the 1880s

FORT TOWN DIARY by John A.H. Morris

The following is an excerpt from Morrises' History of Prescott, 1800-2000

Mr. Norton Miller, one of Prescott's best known and most highly regarded citizens, was the first telephone operator in town, and a pioneer of telephone service here. By 1934, he was the oldest telephone company representative continuously active in the entire Bell system, with a half-century as manager of the Bell Telephone Company.

It was in 1870 that Mr. Miller became telegraph operator, the same year Alexander Bell came with his family to Brantford to live.

A native of Brockville, Mr. Miller came to Prescott in 1867 at the age of 14 to complete his education at the new Prescott Academy on Park St. In January, 1870 he became associated with the Dominion Telegraph Company, at first as a messenger boy for Peter Byrne, who was the Dominion agent in Prescott with offices in the western half of what is now the Prescott Journal building. Mr. Miller eventually became the Dominion representative in Stayner, Dundas, and then Prescott. By the time he was 26 years old he had saved enough money to purchase the stationery, confections and notions business from W.G. Scott which was located in the east half of the The Journal building. He opened his business on Friday, January 13, 1879, the day after he bought it. With the purchase of Scott's store and as agent for Dominion Telegraph, his ventures took up all of the first floor of the present Journal building.

In 1880 and again in 1881 Prescott businesses and residents were canvassed by the Bell Telephone Company, but apparently without success. By the time the next canvass came about in 1884, a minimum of 10 subscribers was needed to obtain an agency. Although only seven persons subscribed for the service, Mr. Miller was granted Prescott's first Bell agency. A small, 50-line switch board was brought in from Montreal and installed in the back of Mr. Miller's stationery store. His salary was 25 per cent of the receipts of his subscribers.

From a pole outside, about half-way between the shop wall and the band stand on the south side of Main street, a bare iron wire was run through a hole at the top of the old sash in the window at the back of the Journal office, with a view toward the Town Hall. Covered wires connected the lead-in with the back of the switchboard which Mr. Miller operated himself.

Judging from the records kept by Mr. Miller, a few of those who signed up for the service, decided not to get a telephone after all. J.P. Wiser, Distiller, King St., N.; Willard, Hardware, Water St.; and John Mayberry, Grocer, stuck loyally to the company from the first. The Grand Trunk Railway and Mr. Miller had free telephone service. Later the following subscribed: John Hayden, Grocer, King St.; A. Jordon, Boots and Shoes, King St.; R. Wrighton, Printer, Water St.; D.J. McCarthy & Sons, Brewers, Water St.; Mrs. Bradley, Grocer, King St.; H.L. Slaight, U.S. Consul, King St. W.H. Freeman, Park St., had Prescott's first residential telephone, ordered in March, 1885.

Mr. Miller's business ventures continued to prosper and in 1889 he moved his business across the street to the premises now occupied by the BIBA clothing store (circa 2000) where they were located for another 60 years. A telegraph and telegram service continued in the west half of the present Journal building, possibly by the CPR, until about 1948. By then it was the CPR telegraph agency and the last operator was the late Bill Neil. When he retired the telegraph services were taken over by Wes Nunn, whose freight office was near the south-west corner of King and West streets. He later sold to Bill Wenborn.

Whether he had outgrown the Journal premises, or the building had changed hands, is unknown, but on March 1, 1890, James Stoddard started The Prescott Journal at its present location, using the east half of the building. The Journal expanded into the west half of the building in 1948 when it was published by Wilfrid Crateau.

Long distance telephone service between Prescott and Brockville was introduced October 27, 1884. This line provided Prescott's initial out-of-town talking contact, and created wonderment and apprehension among local residents.

Mr. Miller recalled for the August, 1934 Journal article that only a limited few would even give the service a trial at first. Nearly two years later, in the fall of 1886, a farmer from "out-back" came into the telephone office and was persuaded to take part in a demonstration of the service. He heard voices actually speaking at Brockville, twelve miles away. Returning home he went to tell a neighbour about the "miracle" but that old gentleman became highly indignant at the thought of such tomfoolery going on in town and discredited the facts in most forcible terms. "Utterly impossible, and complete fabrication through and through," was the way he dismissed it from his mind.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

KOPs not to blame for declining tax base or state of Prescott's economy

The Editor,

Cole Roberts' letter to the editor last week was a good one, in that it outlined his concern that town council isn't spending enough time on revitalizing the local economy. On that, we certainly agree.

But I would like to point out that it wasn't myself, or KOPS, or any citizen activists, who started this tangled Prescott Police disbandment process. We're not the ones to be blamed for not devoting enough time to building Prescott industry and commerce. We're not the ones to be blamed for the tax hike or cut services that will be required to pay the $200,000-plus cost of disbanding the Prescott Police. We're not the ones putting at least seven people out of work.

Mr. Roberts, if you want to look for a culprit to blame for the current sideshow, look to Mayor Bob Lawn and three other members of your municipal government. They are the ones who are wasting the taxpayers' money and time in tearing down one of Prescott's longest-serving institutions, spending hundreds of thousands of dollars that the town can't afford to spend, and firing employees.

If you are really so worried about the state of Prescott's economy, Mr. Roberts, you should probably be less concerned with KOPS and more concerned with the destructive politicking in which Mayor Lawn is engaging. You say that you want to see the town's economy improve? Well, how is that ever going to take place when we have Mayor Lawn trumpeting the town's declining tax base and Stats Canada projections showing Prescott's population going into a steep decline?

Local housing demand has been skyrocketing for at least three years now, the town itself has just purchased the land needed to build a 43-lot subdivision, and Grenville County as a whole is undergoing an unprecedented population explosion. Does anyone really think Prescott will shrink over the next two decades? Does anyone really think that major corporations like Loblaws and Canadian Tire and McDonald's would invest something like $15 million in a dying town?

KOPS is trying to get the focus off destruction and onto construction. Like you, we want to see an end to the bickering and see council move on to constructive efforts that will better our town and build on the great things we have. But our committee members, and the many hundreds of town residents and ratepayers who have already signed our petition protesting disbandment, strongly feel we won't better this great community by tearing it apart.

Brett Todd
KOPS Chairman

Other cuts should come first

The Editor;

To Mr. Mayor and Council:

Can Prescott really afford a CAO?

I have lived here for 48 years and remember vividly when my next door neighbour, Mr. Norman Barber, and his associate, Mrs. Glenna Payne, worked hard to collect taxes, answer phones, send out tax bills, etc. (without support staff).

How many are on staff now at the Town Hall to do the same job?

Something does not jive here.

In my opinion, should you not clean out the Town Hall, close a marina, a rink or get rid of public works before you get rid of our police service?

Greg Adams

SCHOOL SCENE

St. Joseph Catholic School: Congratulations to our St. Joe's Good Samaritans: Taylor Kavanaugh, Samantha Halfpenny, Isabella Lampron, Jenny Minish, A.J. Larocque and Ms. Suzanne Goulet.

St. Joe's junior students raised more than $4,300 for the Heart and Stroke Foundation through the Jump Rope for Heart May 21. Congratulations all!

The St. Joe's Walk-a-thon will take place Friday, May 28 from 9:30 to 11:30 am. Students and staff will walk to raise funds for a new playground structure. We are grateful for the community's support!

Practices for track and field have been taking place Tuesdays and Thursdays. We acknowledge SGDHS for allowing our athletes to use their track after school.

Mrs. Whelan and our drama team are busy practising their lines, building and painting the sets, arranging the lighting and sound stage and drawing up the program for the production of The Hobbit, which will be performed Tuesday, June 15 at 7 pm. All are welcome.

St. Mark Catholic School: We are very proud of our Grade 3 students who have just today finished their EQAO assessments in reading, writing and mathematics.

St. Mark school council will meet for the final time in 2003-2004 tomorrow (May 27) at 7 pm.

St. Mark wishes to congratulate Greg McNally, our director of education, as he retires after 34 years of dedicated and wonderful service in Catholic education.

Mr. McNally has been an excellent leader and role model for all of us, and he will be greatly missed.

Grade 2 students will celebrate the sacrament of First Holy Communion Sunday, May 30 at 1:30 pm at St. Mark's Catholic Church.

Our Grade 3 students will travel to Upper Canada Village Tuesday, June 1.

We will host "First Time Bus Rider Program" for our incoming Kindergarten students Wednesday, June 2. Please call the school (925-3581) to confirm your attendance.

Hot lunch this week is hot dogs.

Speaker to talk about hearing problems

WALKER HOUSE NEWS by MARNIE LIPPIATT

We have just received the tickets for a country supper and play, Drinking Alone, by Norm Foster, on Tuesday, July 20. In this comedy about an unforgettable family reunion, Joe hires an escort to pose as his fiancee to impress his estranged father.

Please call 925-5300 and reserve your spot.

We have invited a speaker to come and talk about hearing difficulties. She will explain how to identify hearing loss, where to find help and ways to cope. If you or someone you know is having a hearing problem, please plan to come.

Anyone from the community is welcome to join us.

Since we will also be offering a light lunch, please pre-register. Mark your calendar for June 17.

Card game winners: Monday bridge ­ 1st, Margaret Nesbitt; 2nd, Bea Hemsley; door, Charlie Steiner. Fun bridge ­ Richard Kingston. Wednesday night euchre ­ 1st, Andy Britnell; 2nd, Janet White. Thursday night euchre ­ 1st, Marg Fodey; 2nd, Jessie Shaver; 3rd, Eddie Arcand; door, Lou Baldwin.

Accomplishments noted at annual squadron dinner for cadets and parents

AIR CADET NEWS by By Captain John E. Henry

PRESCOTT - Members of the 661 Lt W.F. Sharpe Squadron recently held their annual parent-cadet pot luck dinner.

The dinner was held to celebrate the accomplishments of cadets.

The event was attended by more than 150 area parents, cadets and guests, and was highlighted by many awards and promotions to area youth.

The guest of honour, Lieutenant Colonel Jacquie Pepper, addressed the crowd in preparation for upcoming summer training. Pepper is the commanding officer of the Trenton Air Cadet Training centre at the Canadian Forces Base in Trenton.

The camp is responsible for training approximately 1,500 air cadets each summer and will be attended by a large portion of 661 Squadron.

The presentation made by Pepper allowed and insight into camp life, history and an overview of each training course. It allowed parents and cadets to get a feel for what the summer training would involve.

The staff and sponsors wish all of these cadets success at what promises to be a very rewarding summer.

661 Lt. W.F. Sharpe Squadron is always looking for area youth to join, and adult volunteers are appreciated.

For more information on the local Air Cadet squadron, call 349-0488 or visit the national Web site at www.cadets.ca.

Sea Cadets hand out promotions, awards

CARDINAL - The Cardinal Sea Cadet squadron held its annual awards night last Tuesday at the Cardinal Legion.

At the awards ceremony, Commanding Officer Lt. (N) Roger Bourdeau handed out awards and promotions which the kids had earned in the past year.

Awards handed out included:

Katie Allard, best cadet on exercise; Hayley Bennett, best second year cadet and cadet spirit award; Laura Commerford, most athletic cadet; Tiffany Batty, most improved bandsman; Chantal Engelhart, best dressed cadet; Cynthia Casavant, best second year bandsman; Shawn Mustard, military merit and leadership; Bradley Toupin, proficiency in knots; Meagan Fawcett, best third year cadet; Andrew Mustard, most efficient cadet; Terra Batty, best first year bandsman and Travis Fawcett, best first year cadet.

Shawn Mustard received the biggest promotion of the night, moving from a petty officer first class to a chief petty officer second class. In order to receive the promotion, Mustard had to pass a written test, practical testing and an interview with a three-member panel consisting of the commanding officer, the Navy League president and a senior officer from Regional Cadet Headquarters in Trenton.

Other promotions included:

Laura Commerford, Brooke Joudoin, Andrew Mustard and Adam Riddell from petty officer second class to qualified petty officer first class.

Tiffany Batty, Meagan Fawcett and Miranda Ranger from leading cadet to petty officer second class.

Katie Allard, Amelia Baynham, Haley Bennett, Cynthia Cassavant, Chris Dixon, Lindsay Kirker and Christina Miller from able cadet to leading cadet.

Lucy Joudoin, Terra Batty, Brittany Crawford, Travis Fawcett, Crystal McRae, Tiffany Ranger and Jonathan Sullivan from ordinary cadet to able cadet.

Casco workers get new two-year deal

By David Dickenson, Journal Staff Writer

CARDINAL - After six days of picketing at Casco an agreement was finalized Thursday between Casco Cardinal's food processing plant and striking workers of the United Food Processors Union, CAW Local 483.

Union local President Kevin Patrick was happy to see the strike come to an end.

"Everyone seems really pleased," said Patrick. "Everyone is satisfied (with the deal) and we're just happy to get back to work. They started calling people Friday to come in on Friday and now everyone is back to their normal shift."

The strike officially came to an end at noon Friday after striking workers voted to approve the new deal at the Sacred Heart Parish Centre in Cardinal.

Striking workers were informed a tentative agreement between the union's bargaining committee and Casco had been reached Thursday morning, when the picket line was then pulled to allow trucks to freely come and go.

Of the 160 members in attendance at the parish centre, 152 voted to accept the new two-year deal, which resulted in workers being called back for work Saturday.

The union had been on strike since noon Friday, May 14.

Patrick indicated the new deal should help to smooth relations between the union and management over the next couple of years.

"The problems we had to deal with have all been addressed," said Patrick. "I hope this will help out. A lot of the problems have been fixed so it should make for a better relationship with the company."

The union's bargaining committee believes it was able to fix many of the problems that were important to the workers.

The most pressing concern was some employees were working many consecutive days on end, with two solutions being agreed on. The collective agreement will be restructured so shift employees can only hold one job, and Casco has agreed to hire 12 people over the next six months.

A number of job security issues were solidified with improvements made on contractor language and improvements for employees bidding on new jobs.

Also, improvements were agreed to be made on existing fringe benefits which included major dental and chiropractic.

As far as wages go, the workers will also see increases 2.7 and 2.74 per cent compounded over the two years.

Patrick was pleased with the way the community rallied around the striking workers.

"The support and supplies we received from the local businesses and people in Cardinal was greatly appreciated," said Patrick.

"Even businesses in surrounding towns such as Iroquois and Prescott sent food and supplies to the picket line. Other area local unions were quick to call or visit and give their support as well."

The union held a community barbeque Monday for all the union members, former union members and the entire village to thank them for the support throughout the strike.

Repeated attempts by The Journal to obtain comments from the company were unsuccessful.

No charges laid during strike

CARDINAL ­ The Casco strike kept Grenville County OPP busy last week.

Between last Monday and Thursday morning when a tentative deal was reached, officers responded to 15 separate complaints at or near the picket line. All incidents were handled without incident, according to the OPP.

However, the OPP had placed 24-hour coverage in Cardinal beginning Wednesday night.

An assault allegation from last Tuesday night was investigated by Constable Butcher. A truck driver who was being delayed left his vehicle after 15 minutes. He later told police he was confronted by an unknown picketer and pushed. The driver returned to his truck, which was then surrounded by strikers.

During the constable's investigation, the driver could not identify the striker. No injuries were sustained, and no charges were laid.

OPP are also investigating a report of damage to a vehicle at the 730 Truck Stop Thursday morning. It is believed the incident might be strike-related. No further details were available at press time.

Wine tasting event on tap for June 17

CARDINAL - Cardinal In Bloom will be holding its wine tasting fundraiser on Thursday, June 17 at the Cardinal Legion.

The wine tasting begins at 7:30 pm and will feature tastings from the Pelee Island Winery and include fruit and cheese snacks.

The event will also feature a door prize draw.

Tickets can be purchased at the General Dollar and Party Sense.

For more information, call 657-1764, 657-1484 or 657-4507.

Shanliwood church adopts new name but maintains family-friendly identity

EDWARDSBURGH ­ Shanliwood Baptist Church is getting a new name but that is all that will change, according to Pastor Al Litchfield.

"Our congregation felt that a name change would better express our church's focus and desire to reach out to our community with the message of Christ," said Pastor Litchfield, the church's founding and current pastor.

Shanliwood Community Church will replace the current name as of June 1. The church is located at 1803 County Road 2 east of Spencerville. It has been a part of the community for the past nine years and will remain Baptist.

The congregation is made up of families from all corners of the Township of Edwardsburgh/ Cardinal and has gained a reputation for being a family-friendly church, with programs for all ages.

Each summer in late July, a themed Vacation Bible School is held for children as young as three to Grade 6 students. Regular weekly events include pre-school play day on Tuesday mornings as well as TeamKid for ages three to Grade 3 on Thursday evenings. Special events such as craft days are scheduled throughout the calendar.

Regular Sunday services are conducted at 11 am during which children attend age-graded Sunday School classes. A Bible study time is offered each Sunday evening at 7 pm.

For more information, contact the church at 658-2322 or Pastor Al Litchfield at 658-3138.

Cooking with Pazza adds flavour to 4-H

By Lyndsay DeJong, Grenville 4-H Press Reporter

The third and fourth meetings of the 4-H Cooking with Pazza were held April 25 at O'Reilly's grocery store in Prescott.

Our President Melissa called the meeting to order and we got started right away. We practised decorative writing and flower making on a piece of waxed paper and then each member practised decorating two cupcakes which we had the privilege to snack on later in the afternoon. Then there was the big job of designing and icing our own baked cakes. Each member made a cake and had brought it to the meeting and now it was time to test our new talents and begin to create our own special cake.

Near the end of the meeting we had the senior 4-H meeting members judge the cakes giving reasons and explaining how to judge. The next meeting of the 4-H Cooking with Pazza will be held at the same place beginning at noon. We will be making healthy muffins and fine delicate sandwiches.

* * *

The fifth and sixth meetings of the club were held at O'Reilly's May 2 beginning at noon.

We made healthy muffins and dainty sandwiches. We made a couple different kinds of sandwiches with different coloured breads. We also made two different kinds of muffins: blueberry and chocolate chip and banana. All members were encouraged to try all things, but some members got away from the food police.

The 4-H Cooking with Pazza is over, but our achievement day will be held at the Spencerville Legion at the end of May with lots of delicious things starting at 11. Hope to see you there!

Cardinal Honour Roll is unveiled: 1944

CARDINAL'S PAST

May 31, 1934

* Advertisement: For economical transportation, the smart and popular new Chevrolet standard coach, coupe or roadster with rumble seat. Longer and wider bodies, streamline design, safety glass, easy shifting, big positive brakes, wired for radio.

Now $757. Available at L.H. McAuley, Spencerville, E.V. Dodge, Cardinal, R.A. Miller, Prescott.

* The annual meeting of the Spencerville Women's Institute was held at the home of Mrs. J.H. Bennett. The honourary president, Mrs. P.R. Barnard, presided. Plans for an institute room and library were enthusiastically discussed and Miss Lillian Connell and Mrs. P.R. Barnard were appointed to investigate further. Secretary-treasurer Miss Beryl Fairbairn gave the report of the year's activities.

May 25, 1944

* The unveiling of the Cardinal Honour Roll took place Saturday evening when a large crowd of the citizens of the village was present. The honour roll is situated on the west side of Lewis Street, south of the post office.

Reeve H.V. Redden acted as chairman. Carl Reilley, immediate past warden of the Counties of Leeds and Grenville and deputy reeve of Edwardsburgh, introduced the guest speaker, Col. A.C. Casselman, MP.

The names of 230 men and women from Cardinal who are serving in the armed forces are inscribed on the roll.

The Royal Canadian Army Cadet Corps and the Girls Corps of the Cardinal Continuation School were both present wearing their natty uniforms.

May 29, 1974

* About 260 fathers and sons attended the Cardinal Minor Sports banquet. John Hoy was master of ceremonies.

Young artists to return to mill

SPENCERVILLE ­ The Spencerville Mill will once again play host to the Young Artists' Show.

The second annual event will take place Saturday, June 19 and Sunday, June 20 from 10 am to 4 pm.

It is expected at least 18 artists from the Edwardsburgh/Cardinal area will display their paintings, drawings, sculptures and photography at the show.

Admission is free; however, donations to support ongoing mill restoration projects would be appreciated.

In addition to the mill, visitors can take a self-guided tour of Spencerville. The show is set for the same weekend as the new highland games, which will take place at the nearby George Drummond Memorial Grounds.

Plenty of Yuks this Saturday

PRESCOTT ­ The Kinsmen Club of Prescott is hosting three more Yuk Yuk's comics this Saturday, May 29 at the Prescott Legion on Henry Street.

Doors open at 7 pm; the show starts at 8.

Proceeds from the May 29 show go to the Ontario March of Dimes.

Senior girls soccer team crowned LGSSAA champions

By David Dickenson, Journal Staff Writer

PRESCOTT - For the first time in nearly ten years, the South Grenville Giants senior girls soccer team is the champion of Leeds and Grenville Secondary School Athletic Association (LGSSAA).

The Giants put the final accent on their first place regular season finish with a 2-1 victory over the St. Mary Crusaders in Thursday's final.

For many of the players, the win had been something that they had been eagerly awaiting throughout their high school careers.

"It was about time," said Giants senior Miranda Kenney, after the final whistle had blown. "It's just amazing; we lost in the semi-final last year, and the last time South Grenville won it was 1995."

Kenney was quick to credit the team's communication skills as a key factor in the championship.

"We've been really good at communicating on and off the field," said Kenney. "We're a close team. Half of the team has been together since Grade 9."

Teammate Jessica Watt added, "We knew we had to step up and play our game, and we talk out on the field and play well together."

St. Mary got off to a hot start to the game crossing a ball off the far post and into the net to take an early 1-0 lead. South Grenville then rebounded to take advantage of the blowing wind, which saw Amanda Watt score a pair of goals off similar crossing passes.

South Grenville's keeper, Lyndsay Biccum, had a stellar game preserving the Giants' lead in a back-and-forth second half, which saw Amanda Watt come close on multiple scoring chances late in the game.

"They started a bit slow," said coach Scott Baird. "I think they were a little nervous and it showed. They managed to turn things around and play the ball and began pressing. The pressure from our forwards and halves really made them work hard getting the ball out. We had tons of chances late, but our keeper had great hands and was able to track the ball well."

Baird agreed with his team about communication being the key to the team's success this season.

"They just played as a team," said Baird. "The trust on this team is phenomenal. Arguments on the field are extremely rare and when they happen they are just dropped and forgotten. They work together and use ball control and make quality passes. They know when they're in trouble to get it away."

The Giants travel to Kingston Friday to take part in the Eastern Ontario Secondary School Athletic Association championship.

Juniors fall in final

South Grenville's junior girls soccer team didn't have as much luck as it dropped a 5-1 decision to the St. Mary Crusaders Thursday in the LGSSAA junior girls soccer championship in Brockville.

"We got off to a good start with Shannon Dalley scoring on a header," said Christine Sloan, who helps to coach the team along with Ian Ross and student coaches Ken Meikle and Chelsea Knapp. "It was just awesome; the girls were really pumped."

After South Grenville took the lead, St. Mary battled back to tie the score at one, before scoring four unanswered goals to take a 5-1 victory.

"The girls were a little upset," said Sloan. "There was a lot of emotion to the game, but they were happy to make it that far. The luck just wasn't with us, but we should have a strong team for next year."

Local athletes put together strong showing at EOSSAA meet

By David Dickenson, Journal Staff Writer

OTTAWA - South Grenville District High School athletes rose to the occasion for five top three finishes at the Eastern Ontario Secondary School Athletic Association track and field championships last Tuesday and Wednesday at the Terry Fox Athletic Centre in Ottawa.

Grade 9 student Erica Kamenz came up with the strongest showing for the Giants, managing matching second place finishes in the midget girls 100-metres, long jump and triple jump competitions. Kamenz put together a big day while still recovering from a pair of strained quadicep muscles, which plagued her throughout the Leeds and Grenville Secondary School Athletic Association championships and even limited her to taking only one jump in the triple jump competition.

"I got spikes now which
really helped out a lot,"
said Kamenz. "My quad was
getting better and I brought a tensor bandage and some ice packs just in case. I was most worried about the 100-metres since that's the event where I got hurt, but everything ended up feeling okay."

Kamenz was pleased with the showing, but is also looking forward to a strong showing at the Eastern Regional.

"I don't really care whether I qualify in the 100-metres, but I'm hoping for PB's (personal bests) in the long jump and triple jump," said Kemenz. "I'm starting to think a little bit about OFSSAA and my coaches think I can make OFSSAA. It's just been an awesome season."

The Giants athletes continued its success as senior thrower Shane Pettifer managed a third place finish in the senior boys discus competition to ensure his fifth consecutive appearance in the Eastern Regional track and field championships next week in Belleville.

Midget jumper Andrew McCaw continued South Grenville's run as he pieced together a third place finish in the midget boys triple jump competition to make his first trip to the East regional.

Grenville Christian College also came up with a big day at the meet with three top three finishes from Lions' pole vaulters.

Mark Farnsworth led the charge taking home top spot in the junior boys pole vault competition, while his teammate Alex VanVaerenburg wasn't far behind in third place.

GCC's Blake Chauvin continued the Lions' dominance in pole vault as he finished second in the senior boys pole vault competition.

Top South Grenville finishes include:

Shane Pettifer, third, senior boys discus, 37.82m; seventh, senior boys shot put, 12.52m

Andrew McCaw, third, midget boys triple jump, 11.15m; 15th, midget boys long jump, 4.61m

Erica Kamenz, second, midget girls 100-metres, 13.47; second, midget girls long jump, 4.79m; second, midget girls triple jump, 10.12m

Maggie Hutton, fourth, junior girls high jump, 1.40m

Erin Heibein, fifth, senior girls triple jump, 4.57m; seventh, senior girls triple jump, 9.59m

Braeden Elliott, eighth, midget boys 800-metres, 2:20.29; 13th, midget boys 1,500-metres, 5:07.62

Katie McKinley, 14th midget girls 80-metre hurdles, 16.70

Joel Haystead, ninth, midget boys high jump, 1.55m

Mike Froom, 18th, midget boys triple jump, 4.37m

Nick Thornhill, 15th, junior boys 200-metres, 25.87

Amanda Smith, 18th, junior girls 1,500-metres, 6:29.81

Brittany Byrd, 12th, senior girls 100-metres, 13.83

Julie Putman, seventh, senior girls 1,500-metres, 5:31.66; seventh, senior girls 3,000-metres, 12:21.37

Kristina Godwin, 16th, senior girls 100-metre hurdles, 20.81

Jon Baldwin, eighth, open men's 2,000-metre steeplechase, 7:10.60

Top GCC finishes include:

Natasha Plosaj, 11th, midget girls 100-metres, 14.04

Blake Chauvin, second, senior boys pole vault, 3.45m

Mark Farnsworth, first, junior boys pole vault, 3.15m

Alex VanVaerenburg, third, junior boys pole vault, 2.75m

Kevin Puddicombe, fourth, junior boys pole vault, 2.60m

Jesse Kriwox, third, junior boys 1,500-metres, 4:23.14; ninth, junior boys 3,000-metres, 10:09.84

Peter Chui, seventh, junior boys 100-metres, 12.07

Jimmy Locke, 11th, senior boys 110-metre hurdles, 19.41

Oksana Shebetova, sixth, senior girls javelin, 28.50m

GCC, 11th, open men's 4x400-metre relay, 3:55.13

Major atom Kriska Bulldogs repeat as tournament champs

CASSELMAN - The Cardinal-basked Kriska major atom Bulldogs summer hockey team captured the Casselman Pirates tournament for a second year in a row April 29.

In its tournament opener, the Bulldogs had to settle for a 4-4 draw with the Outaouais Selects.

Dylan Rodgers scored a pair of goals to lead Kriska, while Ronnie Harrison and Cory Wilson added singles. Taylor Eamon added a pair of assists and was selected the game's most valuable player.

In game two, the Bulldogs rebounded from the tie for a 7-1 win over the Ottawa Ambassadors.

Russell Hinch led the Bulldogs with a pair of goals, while Clark Seymour, Slater Koekkoek, Lucas
Stitt, Rodgers and Ben Hutton added singles. Hinch, Hutton and Kyle Adams chipped in with a pair of helpers apiece. Stitt was named the game's most valuable player.

In their third game, Kriska dropped a 5-1 decision to the Capital City Cyclones, with Stitt scoring the Bulldogs lone goal.

In a must-win game, the Bulldogs rallied from an early 3-1 deficit to defeat the Ottawa Young Senators 4-3 to advance to the tournament semi-final.

Stitt scored a pair of goals to lead the Bulldogs, while Rodgers and Logan Giesbrecht also scored.
Tanner Benton added a pair of assists. Bulldogs' goaltender Richard Joudoin was named the game's most valuable player.

In the semi-final, Kriska played a strong defensive game knocking off the top seeded Cumberland Knights3-0.

Jarrett Pitt was perfect in goal, earning the first shutout of the tournament and the game's most valuable player award. Benton scored a pair of goals to lead Kriska, while Seymour added a single.

In the final, the Bulldogs were able to avenge their only loss of the tournament with a 6-3 decision over the previously undefeated Cyclones.

Giesbrecht scored a pair of goals to lead the Bulldogs, while Ryan Van Stralen, Hutton and Eamon added singles. Hinch was named the game's most valuable player.

Islanders qualify for semi-final

CASSELMAN - The Cardinal-based St. Lawrence minor peewee Islanders regional summer hockey team faced some stiff competition in Casselman as it managed one win, one draw and two losses.

On May 8-9, the Islanders travelled to Casselman, facing off against four teams in a two-day tournament.

In its opener, the Islanders scored a 2-1 win over the Ottawa Voyageurs. Eric Morotti and Brandon Timmons each scored for St. Lawrence in the win, while Alex O'Neil and Mitchel Chartrand assisted.

In its second game, the Islanders had to settle for a 3-3 draw, after the Ottawa 67's tied up the game with nine seconds left in the third period. Morotti, Timmons and Jesse Zanutta each scored for the Islanders, while Mike Prosper (2), Morotti and Michael Karam chipped in with helpers.

In its third game, the Islanders jumped out to an early 1-0 lead in the first period, before a momentum shift led the Casselman Pirates to score six unanswered goals for a 6-1 win. Morotti scored the lone Islanders' goal, while Brendan O'Neil added an assist.

In its fourth game, St. Lawrence faced off against the Montreal Storm, dropping a 6-4 decision. The Islanders trailed by two goals early in the game and battled back, but ended up falling short in their comeback bid. Karam, Morotti, Chartrand and Curtis Van Allen scored for St. Lawrence, while Colin Halladay (2), Alex O'Neil, Cody Johnson, Scott Forbes, and Prosper chipped in with helpers.

Despite a 1-2-1 record, the Islanders advanced to the semi-final, in which it dropped a 9-2 decision to the Ottawa Canadiens after getting into penalty trouble. Morotti and Karam scored for the Islanders, while Johnson and Van Allen added assists.

Rob Nault and Taylor Warren had strong performances in goal for the Islanders throughout the weekend.

Major novice Isles score 9-2 victory over Ottawa Capitals

OTTAWA - The Cardinal-based St. Lawrence major novice Islanders hockey team travelled to Ottawa May 9 and scored a 9-2 win over the Ottawa Capitals.

The Islanders fell behind 1-0 after the first period, but managed to battle back by getting three quick goals from Conor Rodrigues (2) and Tyler Turcotte to take a commanding lead. Spencer Jonsson, Turcotte and Jody Sullivan added assists.

The Capitals narrowed the lead to one goal early in the third period, but the Islanders came back with six unanswered goals to take the 9-2 victory. Cole Seaton (2), Sullivan (2), Matt Fox and Nevin Guy scored in the third period, while Craig Kehoe (3), Brendan Keating (2), Jesse Boyd, Rodrigues, Seaton, Dillon O'Neil, Jonsson, Turcotte and Fox chipped in with helpers.

Second ace of season at Prescott Golf Club

PRESCOTT - A local golfer scored the Prescott Golf Club's second ace of the Season May 16.

Greg Williams managed to drain the hole-in-one on the 175-yard 13th hole at the club. Williams used his seven-iron.

This marked the first-ever ace for Williams, who was accompanied by Steve Smith, Mike Richard and John Greer.

Annual charity fundraiser seeking sponsors for golf tourney

BROCKVILLE - The 1,000 Islands Branch of the Royal Canadian Regiment (RCR) is looking for hole sponsors and prizes to be donated for its annual golf tournament to be held later this summer at Highland Golf Club in Brockville.

The RCR is a group of World War II and Korean War veterans.

The money raised from the golf tournament will be used to assist other community organizations such as minor hockey and minor ball.

For more information or to donate, contact Jack Shepherd at 498-4199 or John Shepherd at 342-8047.

Falcons holding golf tournament June 5 at PGC to raise money

PRESCOTT - The St. Lawrence Falcons Sr. A hockey club is holding the Brockville Kia golf tournament Saturday, June 5 at the Prescott Golf Club.

The tournament will be a scramble format and will run throughout the day.

Tickets include a steak dinner, 18 holes of golf and prizes.

Come out and support the Falcons hockey club as they look to continue the success of its inaugural season in the Eastern Ontario Senior A Hockey League.

For more information or to purchase a ticket contact Dean Kirkby at 925-1988 or Nancy Deschambault at 345-2922.

Elementary school athletes to take part in track meet

BROCKVILLE - Athletes from elementary schools across South Grenville will be taking part in the Leeds and Grenville Elementary School Athletic Association (LGESAA) track and Field meet June 11.

The meet will be held at Thousand Islands Secondary School in Brockville and will run from 9 am until 5 pm.

Awards for top athletes at the meet will be presented at approximately 4:30 pm.

In order to compete in the LGESAA championship, athletes must have a top four placing in their regional track and field meet.

Come out and support local athletes as they look to medal at LGESAA.

All content is copyright 2004 The Prescott Journal. No reproduction permitted without written permission.